Ever left your electric vehicle (EV) sitting for months without touching it? Maybe you traveled, switched to another car, or just didn’t have a reason to drive. Whatever the case, EVs don’t like being left alone for too long. Unlike gas-powered cars, electric vehicles rely on batteries and complex electronic systems that can be affected by long periods of inactivity.
If you’re wondering what happens when an EV sits unused for months and what to do about it, you’re in the right place. Let’s go over the possible issues and how to keep your EV in top shape, even if it’s not driven regularly.
Battery Health Takes a Hit
The most significant concern when an EV sits idle is battery degradation. EV batteries are designed to be used regularly, and long periods of inactivity can cause a gradual loss of charge, known as self-discharge. If the charge level drops too low, the battery could enter a deep discharge state, which can shorten its lifespan or, in some cases, cause irreversible damage.
How to Prevent Battery Issues:
- Keep the battery charged between 20% and 80% if you’re not using the car for a while. Letting it drain completely can be harmful.
- If possible, plug the car into a charger occasionally to maintain charge levels.
- If your EV has been parked for months and isn’t holding a charge well, you might need a battery replacement or electric car battery maintenance to check for damage.
Brakes Can Rust or Seize Up
Unlike traditional cars, EVs use regenerative braking, which means the brakes are used less frequently. However, when an EV sits for months, the metal components in the braking system, especially the rotors, can collect moisture and develop rust. If left unchecked, this can lead to noisy brakes, reduced braking performance, or, in extreme cases, the brakes seizing up completely.
What to Do:
- If you plan to leave your car parked for a long time, try moving it slightly every few weeks to prevent brake rust.
- If you notice unusual noises or braking issues after long-term parking, consider getting a brake service to clean and check the system.
The 12V Battery Can Die
Most EVs have a smaller 12V battery (just like gas cars) that powers essential functions like lights, locks, and the infotainment system. Even if the main battery is fine, the 12V battery can drain if the car isn’t driven for an extended period.
If this battery dies, you might have trouble unlocking the car or even turning it on.
How to Prevent This:
- Some EVs allow you to trickle charge the 12V battery from the main battery—check your owner’s manual.
- If the car has been sitting for a long time and won’t start, the 12V battery may need to be jump-started or replaced.
Tires Can Develop Flat Spots
When a car sits in one place for too long, the weight of the vehicle presses down on the tires, causing flat spots. This happens more quickly in EVs because they tend to be heavier than gasoline cars due to their large batteries.
Flat spots can lead to vibrations and a rough ride when you finally drive again.
How to Prevent Tire Issues:
- If possible, inflate the tires to the recommended pressure before storing the car.
- Move the car slightly every few weeks to prevent the tires from staying in one position for too long.
- After months of inactivity, check the tires for pressure and uneven wear before driving long distances.
Cooling and HVAC Systems Can Develop Issues
The air conditioning (AC) and cooling system in an EV play a crucial role in maintaining battery health and cabin comfort. If the car is parked for too long, coolant levels can drop, and seals in the AC system might dry out, leading to potential leaks or inefficiencies.
What to Do:
- Before driving again, turn on the AC and check if it cools efficiently.
- If you notice weak cooling or unusual noises, have an expert inspect the system.
Rodents and Dust Can Cause Problems
If a car is parked for too long, especially outdoors or in a garage, it can become a home for rodents and insects. These critters might chew on wiring, leading to electrical problems. Dust and debris can also accumulate in vents and filters, affecting air quality inside the car.
How to Avoid This:
- Keep your parking area clean and free from food or trash that could attract rodents.
- Check under the hood and around wiring before starting the car after long-term parking.
Your EV Might Need a Professional Check-Up
After months of inactivity, it’s always a good idea to get the car inspected before relying on it for daily use again. A pre-purchase inspection can help spot hidden issues, even if you already own the car. This is especially useful if you’re planning to sell or buy an EV that hasn’t been driven in a while.
A technician can check the battery, brakes, tires, and other critical systems to make sure the car is safe and ready to hit the road.
Final Thoughts
Parking your EV for months without driving it might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can lead to problems like battery degradation, brake rust, tire damage, and AC issues. The good news? A little preparation can go a long way.
To keep your EV in top condition:
- Maintain the battery charge between 20%-80%.
- Move the car occasionally to prevent brake rust and flat spots on tires.
- Check the 12V battery if the car won’t start.
- Inspect the brakes, cooling system, and HVAC before driving again.
- Schedule a battery replacement, brake service, or Electric Car Battery Maintenance if needed.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your EV stays road-ready, even if it’s been sitting for months. And if you ever need a professional check-up, experts at EVS UAE are always here to help. Contact EVS UAE today to schedule your electric vehicle service or upgrade and enjoy a smoother and safer driving experience.
